Immunization Exemptions​

​In California, there are two exemptions to the immunization requirements.

Medical Exemptions​

• Temporary or permanent medical conditions prevent a child from receiving immunizations.

• Both temporary and permanent medical exemptions require a letter from a doctor that states the medical condition and which immunizations the student cannot receive.

• In the case of a temporary exemption, the doctor must also specify how long the immunization should be postponed.

• Schools shall maintain a list of exempt and conditional entrants.

Personal Belief Exemptions

​As of July 1, 2016, SB 277 eliminated the personal belief exemption from the immunization requirements for schools. Certain students with a valid existing personal belief exemption will remain exempt from the new requirements unless or until they enter transitional kindergarten or seventh grade. See Shots for School​.​

​If there is a disease outbreak at school, the exempt student may be excluded from school to protect him or her and prevent others from becoming ill.